Reading this sort of statement makes me overcome with emotion. These are the direct words of a person who truly faces imprisonment, torture, and death; and who has the bravery to uphold his principles nonetheless. Not only in words, which are apparently dangerous enough in Iran presently, but in action. My heart is filled with admiration, and my eyes are filled with tears.

I read this article when it was published two weeks ago. Today there's another story: this author and others have indeed suffered the consequences of acting out against their oppressors. They have been arrested, and whether they are alive or dead is unknown. I was moved when I read it originally, but a great deal more so now that its been made evident that his criticisms have been so visibly validated.

The passion for freedom is, perhaps, among the most noble, beautiful and tragic traits a human can express. Noble and beautiful because it is an instance of a human asserting the value of their own existence, their rights, and repudiating the moral legitimacy of those who would take those things away. Tragic because these bright sparks of individuals are so likely to be "consumed in freedom's flame."

Its something that people born into politically free environments, like myself, can only guess and wonder at; we've never been called upon to put ourselves to the test. To those who are put to it and pass: you have my greatest, most heartfelt respect and admiration. I only wish I could do something for you.